As the cold weather moves in, it’s time to think about infant and baby outerwear. For first-time parents, this can be a confusing task as you try to figure out what exactly you should be buying because there are so many different styles of baby outerwear on the market. For seasoned parents, you might be wondering if it’s time to move from a snowsuit to a set of snow pants and a jacket.
The Best Styles for Newborn Babies
If you have an infant that is not yet crawling, you can get through the winter with as little as a heavy-weight jacket or bunting. Chances are, your baby will not be spending time frolicking in the snow this year, so a snowsuit will go largely unused.
Baby buntings will keep your baby snuggled up and warm when you take neighborhood walks, and a jacket, pair with a hat and mittens will be perfect for a day out shopping. Invest in a car seat cover that fits over your baby's car seat to keep the wind off him or her, and dress them in layers when you’re headed out.
Many parents think that if it’s cold and windy outside, their babies need to be bundled to the extreme. That is not the case. Baby’s get overheated just like we do. It is important to remember to dress your baby as you are dressing yourself.
For Babies That are Crawling
If your baby is crawling, you best bet is to invest in both a snowsuit and a jacket. Because your baby may spend some time curiously crawling through the snow, it’s best to have a one-piece snowsuit on hand. However, because this piece of baby outerwear will likely not be the most frequently worn, you can save yourself some money by purchasing a used snowsuit.
For Babies that Walk
For the baby that’s walking, mobility in outerwear is the key to a happy baby. One-piece snowsuits can make them feel more like the Michelin Man than an actual baby trying to enjoy the snow. For this set, I recommend a set of snow pants and a jacket.
By far, you will get the most use out of this option, and if you invest in a set of snow pants that has a fleece vest-style top instead of a standard bib, you can layer it with a thermal long-sleeve top and still let them play on those days in the Spring when it’s warm, but slushy and wet.
It might make you cringe to think of your baby running around without a jacket on, but remember, the best way to dress your baby is to mimic your own layers. Over-dressing them will only cause them to overheat and become uncomfortable.
When choosing baby outerwear, consider your options before making a purchase. Outerwear can get pricey, so it’s best to know what you’re looking for before making the investment.
